Courtesy: Gateway House
The world is undergoing a profound transformation - not driven by the U.S., China, or Russia, but by small and medium states carving out their rightful space in the emerging order. With UN reform stalled, middle-power cooperation must organise effectively to push for a responsive multilateral system that works for all, ensuring institutions are reformed and made fit for today’s world.
Courtesy: G20.org
The G20’s current cycle is unique, with four Global South nations presiding consecutively: Indonesia, India, Brazil, and now South Africa. Brazil’s 2023-24 presidency exhibited both achievements and struggles, prioritising social inclusion, hunger, energy transition, and governance reform. The handover to South Africa marks a significant milestone in G20 history. Will the momentum be followed by the U.S., the next G20 president but also a G20 sceptic?
Courtesy: X / PMOIndia
PM Modi's five-nation tour highlights that despite geopolitical conflicts, New Delhi remains confident in its ability to balance relationships with the North and South.
Courtesy: The Diplomatist
The traditional label of ‘middle power’ fails to capture India’s growing status. The country’s ability to shape the international discourse is no longer in question. India sees itself as a key player the global order.
Courtesy: X
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Mauritius reinforced the strategic partnership between the two nations amid growing geopolitical competition in the Indian Ocean. The visit introduced the Mahasagar vision for regional security and growth while advancing cooperation in trade, defence, digital infrastructure, and people-to-people ties. With the shared historical, cultural, and economic ties, Mauritius remains pivotal to India’s Indo-Pacific strategy.
Courtesy: Institute for Global Dialogue
The G20 and South Africa - its presiding nation - will both face a difficult year. The U.S., one of the G20’s most vital members has not yet participated, notable by its absence from two important ministerial meetings. The U.S.’ changed foreign policy stance will be a tough challenge for G20; the Global South members will have to step up and become proactive.
Courtesy: NBC News
Since the Ukraine crisis, Russia has been positioning itself strategically in the African continent, strengthening bilateral ties and addressing regional security issues. It is leveraging economic, energy, agriculture and military ties and investments in order to be seen as serious a counterweight to the U.S. and the European Union’s presence in the continent.
Courtesy: The Hindu
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s six-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana in November resulted in several bilateral agreements on economic, developmental, energy and technological cooperation. The trip highlighted India’s strategic and diplomatic priorities in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean and offered the country an opportunity to position itself as a key partner for sustainable development and multilateral cooperation in the Global South.
Courtesy:
Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to Nigeria on November 16-17 marks the first leg of his transcontinental diplomatic tour and offers a valuable opportunity to advance cooperation with Africa and the Global South. The trip, aimed at deepening cooperation in trade, investment and defence, signaled India’s recognition of Nigeria’s significance as Africa’s regional and continental powerhouse.
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President Droupadi Murmu made state visits to Algeria, Mauritania, and Malawi from 13-19 October. It was the first-ever visit by an Indian head of state to these African nations, reflecting New Delhi's interest in strengthening its multidimensional strategic partnership with the continent. It also provides an opportunity to understand and respond to the needs of nations in the Global South.